2. Primary end points: HBeAg seroconversion was defined as loss of HBeAg with concurrent appearance of HBeAb. Serological recurrence was defined as reappearance of HBeAg. Virological recurrence was defined as an increase of HBV DNA level to greater than 10,000 copies/mL after HBeAg seroconversion with previously HBV DNA levels less than 10,000 copies/mL.